The muscles of the arm allow the interaction between the arm, forearm, and shoulder. They include:

  1. Coracobrachialis
  2. Biceps brachii
  3. Brachialis
  4. Triceps brachii
  5. Anconeus

Figure 1. Muscles of the arm and forearm

Compartments

These muscles are divided by the intermuscular septum into two compartments: anterior and posterior compartments.

Anterior compartment

The anterior compartment includes:

  • Coracobrachialis muscle
  • Biceps brachii muscle
  • Brachialis muscle

Coracobrachialis muscle

The coracobrachialis muscle originates at the tip of the coracoid process of the scapula and inserts at the medial side of the midshaft of the humerus, passing through the axilla with its elongated body.

  • The coracobrachialis muscle flexes and stabilizes the arm.
  • The coracobrachialis muscle, together with the deltoid and long head of the triceps, serve as shunt (stabilizing) muscles, resisting downward dislocation of the head of the humerus when lifting heavy objects.

Subscribe now to continue reading

Join hundreds of successful students who use Meddists to ace their exams.

Gain access to all of the material and topics, custom-made just for you.

Continue